I am glad to know that you are able to simply compare the win-loss records of two seasons and gain instant insight into the quality of and direction in which a team is headed. Perhaps you may consider consulting with Coach Chass as to my "undue praise". Praise is certainly due to Coach Chass for the season he has had and I for one don't see the need to demean the work of one to praise another but that's up to you.
Regardless of what you think the Bluffton program is on the rise. I know this because several of these girls played on my club team and I know the quality of the coach due to the fact that he coached my daughter's club team. Mike has lost several talented players who would not commit to doing things the right way.
Quote: Bluffton was 13-7 last year versus 5-15 this year and someone is saying that the new coach has instilled a new mindset???
Last year Bluffton beat Berkeley, this year they lost to the Lady Stags.
So if going from winning 6 more than you lose, to losing 10 more than you win is "pointing the ship in the right direction", then kudos to the captain!
And if Bluffton is SO much better than they were last year, and kids are FINALLY buying into the program (how can you finally buy into a program after only one year, really?) then the real credit goes to... Coach Chass, who somehow was able to mastermind an actual turnaround and defeat this new and improved Bluffton powerhouse.
Undue praise is equal to undue criticism. It only serves to cloud the mind of the recipient.
Losing 2-0 to BC seems like a good result given Bluffton's record, give the girls and coach credit for a game well played.
Also, give credit to the new coach for scheduling a much tougher schedule than in previous years. But if those girls go 5-15 the next two years, either they'll lose interest in soccer, the coach will change mindsets and schedule more winnable matches, or the coach won't be around much longer.
Look at Byrnes or Richland Northeast for examples of how playing top level competition every year can burn a program out. Those schools have more talent than some AAAA schools that make the playoffs every year, but tough regions and tough non-region opponents have taken their toll on once strong programs.
